[18F] PSMA-1007 PET/CT in Metastatic Clear Cell Renal Cell Carcinoma
This study is looking at a new way to find kidney cancer that has spread, specifically a type called clear cell renal cell carcinoma. Doctors usually use CT or MRI scans, but sometimes tiny cancer spots are missed. This study uses a special type of scan called a PET/CT with a unique tracer called [18F] PSMA-1007. This tracer is designed to stick to clear cell kidney cancer, making it glow on the scan. The goal is to see if this more sensitive scan can pick up cancer in places where regular scans couldn't, which could help doctors decide if surgery, radiation, or other drug treatments would be most effective for you. It's an early-stage study to see how well it works.
At a glance
What is this study about?
When kidney cancer spreads (this is called metastatic clear cell renal cell carcinoma), doctors need to know exactly where it is in the body to choose the best treatment. Usually, they use regular scans like CT or MRI. If the cancer has only spread to a few places, doctors might suggest surgery or radiotherapy to treat those specific areas. However, if the cancer has spread more widely, then treatments that affect the whole body, like chemotherapy or other drug therapies, might be more suitable. It's really important to get the clearest picture possible of where the cancer is.
This study is testing a new type of imaging called a PET/CT scan with a special medicine called [18F] PSMA-1007. This medicine is designed to attach to kidney cancer cells, especially the clear cell type, which often have a lot of a specific protein called PSMA. When the medicine attaches to the cancer, it lights up on the PET/CT scan, potentially making it easier to see small areas of cancer that might be missed on standard scans. The main aim is to see if this new scan can find hidden cancer spots that current scans can't, which could change how your doctors plan your care.
This is an early-stage study, meaning it's one of the first times this specific scan is being used in patients with this type of kidney cancer. The researchers want to understand how useful and reliable it is for finding these hidden cancer sites. If it works well, it could become a valuable tool in the future for helping doctors make more informed decisions about treatment for people with metastatic clear cell kidney cancer.
Key takeaways
- This study uses a new PET/CT scan to find kidney cancer that has spread.
- It targets a specific protein (PSMA) often found on clear cell kidney cancer.
- The goal is to find cancer spots that regular scans might miss.
- This extra information could help doctors plan better treatments.
- It's an early-stage study, focusing on how well this new scan works.
Who may be eligible?
To be considered for this study, you need to be 18 years old or older and have kidney cancer that has spread, specifically the clear cell type, confirmed by a biopsy. We'll also need recent CT or MRI scans of your chest, tummy, and pelvis, done within about 5 weeks before joining.
There are some reasons why you might not be able to join. For example, if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if your kidney cancer doesn't have the clear cell component. You also can't have had any other cancer in the past (unless it was a common skin cancer that's not melanoma). If you can't lie still for about 30 minutes for the scan, or if your liver isn't working properly, you might not be able to take part. Also, if you need urgent cancer treatment (like chemotherapy or radiotherapy) before the special scan can happen, or if you've already had these types of treatments for your cancer, you won't be eligible. It's also important that you can understand and agree to take part in the study.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Are you 18 years old or older?
- Do you have kidney cancer (clear cell type) that has spread?
- Have you recently had a CT or MRI scan?
- Have you never had other cancer treatments like chemotherapy or radiotherapy for this cancer?
- Are you able to lie flat for about 30 minutes?
- Are you *not* pregnant or breastfeeding?
What does participation involve?
If you join this study, you will have one special scan called a PET/CT scan using the [18F] PSMA-1007 medicine. Before this scan, you'll need to have had recent standard scans (CT or MRI) of your chest, abdomen, and pelvis within 5 weeks. You will also have a biopsy to confirm your cancer type. There are no other visits or treatments involved in this study. The total duration of your involvement will be short, primarily focused on the single PET/CT scan and the necessary checks before it.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- London Health Sciences Centre - Victoria HospitalVerified postcodeLondon, Canada· Recruiting
Common questions
What is clear cell renal cell carcinoma?
It's the most common type of kidney cancer, named because its cells look clear under a microscope.
What is a PET/CT scan?
It's a special imaging test that combines two types of scans to show both the structure of your body and how your cells are working, which can help find cancer.
What does [18F] PSMA-1007 do?
It's a special substance (called a tracer) that is injected into your body. It's designed to stick to certain kidney cancer cells and glow on the PET/CT scan, making them easier to see.
Will I receive treatment in this study?
No, this study is only about finding cancer spots with a special scan, not about providing cancer treatment.
How long does taking part in the study last?
Your involvement in the study is short, mainly focusing on the single PET/CT scan and the checks needed before it.
How to find out more
Kaydee Connors
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
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